Engineering topics

Jenkins, Lyle M.

Publications and source records attributed to Jenkins, Lyle M..

13 records

NASA NTRS1992

Global change - Geoengineering and space exploration

Geoengineering options and alternatives are proposed for mitigating the effects of global climate change and depletion of the ozone layer. Geoengineering options were discussed by the National Academy of Science Panel on the Policy Implications of Greenhouse Warming. Several of the ideas conveyed in their published report are space-based or depend on space systems for implementation. Among the geoengineering options using space that are discussed include the use of space power systems as an alternative to fossil fuels for generating electricity, the use of lunar He-3 to aid in the development of fusion energy, and the establishment of a lunar power system for solar energy conversion and electric power beaming back to earth. Other geoengineering options are discussed. They include the space-based modulation of hurricane forces and two space-based approaches in dealing with ozone layer depletion. The engineering challenges and policy implementation issues are discussed for these geongineering options.

Jenkins, Lyle M.↗

NASA NTRS1992

Large space-based systems for dealing with global environment change

Increased concern over the effects of global climate change and depletion of the ozone layer has resulted in support for the Global Change Research Program and the Mission to Planet Earth. Research to understand Earth system processes is critical, but it falls short of providing ways of mitigating the effects of change. Geoengineering options and alternatives to interactively manage change need to be developed. Space-based concepts for dealing with changes to the environment should be considered in addition to Earth-based actions. 'Mission for Planet Earth' describes those space-based geoengineering solutions that may combine with an international global change program to stabilize the Global environment. Large space systems that may be needed for this response challenge guidance and control engineering and technology. Definition, analysis, demonstration, and preparation of geoengineering technology will provide a basis for policy response if global change consequences are severe.

Jenkins, Lyle M.↗

NASA NTRS1991

JSC Director's Discretionary Fund Program

The JSC Center Director's Discretionary Fund Program 1991 Annual Report provides a brief status of the projects undertaken during the 1991 fiscal year. For this year, four space exploration initiative related issues were focused on: regenerative life support, human spacecraft design, lunar surface habitat, and in situ resource utilization. In this way, a viable program of life sciences, space sciences, and engineering research has been maintained. For additional information on any single project, the individual investigator should be contacted.

Jenkins, Lyle M.↗

NASA NTRS1991

Countermeasures for mitigating the effects of global environment changes

Environmental countermeasures for preventing the negative effects of global climate change and ozone depletion are discussed with special emphasis on the possibilities of space-based actions. Among the programs addressed are the Mission to Planet Earth, the Solar Power Satellite (and linkage to the Space Exploration Initiative), and proposed projects such as a lunar-based power generator that utilizes He-3 as a fusion fuel when combined with deuterium. The concept of regional working groups is proposed for initiating the programs for effective countermeasures.

Jenkins, Lyle M.↗

NASA NTRS1990

Large space systems in global change mitigation

The monitoring from space of such processes as the greenhouse effect and depletion of the ozone layer is discussed, as well as possibilities for active intervention in them, using space systems. Possibilities include the use of the Solar Power Satellite to reduce dependence on the burning of fossil fuels, dispersal of materials to neutralize chemicals responsible for ozone depletion, and measures to reduce the impact of local disasters, both natural and man-made.

Jenkins, Lyle M.↗

NASA NTRS1989

Flight experiments in telerobotics-Orbiter middeck concept

Most uncertainties of operation of a telerobot in the space environment relate to the absence of gravity effects and not to the vacuum effects. A flight experiment concept is proposed for the middeck of the space shuttle that provides direct access for the crew. Telerobot dextrous manipulation issues in task performance, mechanism response, system duty cycles, and operator interface can be effectively addressed. A pair of replica-type master controllers would be adapted for slave manipulator functions. A variety of test setups and control modes can obtain data on zero G operation of a telerobot.

Jenkins, Lyle M.↗

NASA NTRS1989

Construction of large space power facilities

Construction was an important facet of the Satellite Power System studies in the late 1970s. Satellite servicing and assembly of the Space Station Freedom are addressing many of the critical issues in construction of large space systems. Design for assembly, capability of construction equipment and interaction with the launch system influence configuration development. The extravehicular capabilities of space-suited crew and remote operating systems like the Flight Telerobotic Servicer will provide an operational experience base for development of future large space power facilities. Economics success may well depend on early consideration of construction requirements and capabilities.

Jenkins, Lyle M.↗

NASA NTRS1989

Demonstrating system for servicing satellites

NASA has initiated a program to demonstrate a Satellite Servicer System prototype in a series of flight tests with the Space Shuttle. When the commitment to an operational system has been demonstrated, it is anticipated that a variety of missions will develop that can productively use the servicing capability. Rendezvous and proximity operations contain key enabling technologies needed for an effective operational system. Guidance, navigation and control hardware and operational techniques must be integrated into the program. Supporting sensor technology may limit or enhance the capability of the system depending on its readiness. Requirements for docking the spacecraft in the system concept development and technology requirements are reviewed. Examples of the initial assessment of technology readiness and applications opportunities are discussed. The degree of autonomy is of particular interest.

Jenkins, Lyle M.↗

NASA NTRS1987

Telerobot for space station

The Flight Telerobotic Servicer (FTS), a multiple arm dexterous manipulation system, will aid in the assembly, maintenance, and servicing of the space station. Fundamental ideas and basic conceptual designs for a shuttle-based telerobot system have been produced. Recent space station studies provide additional concepts that should aid in the accomplishment of mission requirements. Currently, the FTS is in contractual source selection for a Phase B preliminary design. At the same time, design requirements are being developed through a series of robotic assessment tasks being performed at NASA and commercial installations. A number of the requirements for remote operation on the space station, necessary to supplement extravehicular activity (EVA), will be met by the FTS. Finally, technology developed for telerobotics will advance the state of the art of remote operating systems, enhance operator productivity, and prove instrumental in the evolution of an adaptive, intelligent autonomous robot.

Jenkins, Lyle M.↗

NASA NTRS1987

Telerobotic work system: Concept development and evolution

The basic concept of a telerobotic work system (TWS) consists of two dexterous manipulator arms controlled from a remote station. The term telerobotic describes a system that is a combination of teleoperator control and robotic operation. Work represents the function of producing physical changes. System describes the integration of components and subsystems to effectively accomplish the needed mission. Telerobotics reduces exposure to hazards for flight crewmembers and increases their productivity. The requirements for the TWS are derived from both the mission needs and the functional capabilities of existing hardware and software to meet those needs. The development of the TWS is discussed.

Jenkins, Lyle M.↗

NASA NTRS1987

Telerobot flight experiment - Control issues in zero g

A telerobot concept consisting of dual-arm dexterous manipulators controlled by an operator has been proposed as a supplement (and possibly an alternative) to EVA by space crews. Issues of control of manipulator arms arising from the mechanical response and the operator's interaction with the hand controllers and displays are discussed. It is noted that the Space Shuttle cabin and the payload bay are the primary facilities for the resolution of remote manipulation and issues with telerobots.

Jenkins, Lyle M.↗

NASA NTRS1987

Telerobot experiment concepts in space

A unique set of problems will be encountered in the development of telerobotic systems for space applications such as the Flight Telerobotic System. The dexterous manipulation of objects in zero g will be significantly different. Issues arise from mechanical response and operator interaction with the controls and displays. To reduce development risk, a series of experiments are conceived for the Space Shuttle.

Jenkins, Lyle M.↗

NASA NTRS1986

System architecture for the telerobotic work system

The functional and performance requirements and design concepts for a telerobotic work system (TWS) being considered as an adjunct to the Shuttle Remote Manipulator System and other applications are described. The multiple-armed free-flyer would be controlled by an operator in the Orbiter cabin and would perform remote sensing and manipulative tasks that EVA crew otherwise carry out. The TWS could also perform hazardous tasks, construction operations, and be an asset to the Space Station. Alternative system architectures are described, including the man-machine interface, the types of manipulators and their stowage, and the controls and backup systems. Potential terrestrial applications of the TWS concept, augmented with AI capabilities, are discussed.

Jenkins, Lyle M.↗